Shark survivor's condition improving
NORTH KOHALA, HAWAII (HawaiiNewsNow) - Update:
Braxton Rocha remains in the Intensive Care Unit but his condition is improving. He underwent surgery after being flown to North Hawaii Hospital. Upolu Point is a remote area known by local fisherman. Because it is not a popular beach, there were no closures after the attack.
Original Story:
A man has been hospitalized after he was bitten by a shark off the North Kohala shoreline of the Big Island.
The man was identified as 27-year-old Braxton Rocha of Kapaau.
Authorities said Rocha was spearfishing about 60 yards off Upolu Point at about 3:30 p.m. Sunday when a 13-foot long tiger shark bit him on the leg, leaving a large gash at least several inches deep.
Rocha was able to swim back to shore and call his fishing companions.
Emergency personnel took the man to Kamehameha Park, where he was picked up by a helicopter and flown to North Hawaii Hospital.
Rocha posted a graphic video of his injury on his Instagram account.
No beach closure was enacted due to the incident occurring in an isolated and remote area.
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